In 2011 I wrote a piece on the proposed Emera deal. The big talking point for politicians was to avoid big bad Quebec and Hydro-Quebec.
At the time I asked what protections were in place to keep Emera out of the hands of Hydro-Quebec.
Please read the earlier post HERE
The Government of Nova Scotia may have some protections against the takeover of Nova Scotia Power (wholly owned subsidiary of Emera) however the parts of Emera important to our province have no such protection.
What has changed since 2011? Hydro-Quebec has. They have announced a new direction.
The Crown Company will back off new large scale hydro while optimizing current assets and completing those started (Romaine 3 and 4), concentrate on energy efficiency, transportation electrification, environmentally sustainable management practices and ...
Putting aside for a moment the exceptional organization, human resources, performance, and tight governmental directions for the corporation - HQ continues to plan 15-20 years out with measurable targets and results.
The ... above represents the real problem for Newfoundland and Labrador. It is the promise to double the profits and size of HQ from $13.5 billion to $27 billion.
They have formed a special new group within the company to focus on mergers and acquisitions.
Specifically their sights are set on assets in Europe, the US and the Maritimes.
Imagine if they follow through - Emera shareholders may be in for a bonanza and HQ will have us going out and in both on the Island and Labrador. Even the line that crosses at Soldiers pond may be partly owned by HQ. Imagine that!
So all the people who pushed Emera and Muskrat down our throats may be in for a big payday - if they are shareholders of Emera. In my opinion the problem with cutting a deal with HQ on the Lower Churchill was never really about avoiding Quebec it was about making sure the partner was a venue that was available for share acquisition. No direct money for the elite if Hydro-Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro cut a deal.
HQ CEO - Éric Martel says, “The idea is to increase the benefit for Quebec, to enrich Hydro-Québec
and Quebec at the same time, without having to increase rates too much.
So this will help us meet our engagement of maintaining rate increase to
the cost of inflation, or less”.
Imagine if our leaders did the same.
Showing posts with label romaine river. Show all posts
Showing posts with label romaine river. Show all posts
Friday, June 10, 2016
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Nalcor - Premier - Hydro Quebec Worst is Yet to Come
 | ||
| Hydro-Quebec Document (Current Strategic Plan) |
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Award winning Journalists and the Fighting Dunderdale Government
Oh my - how do I say this politely? What a joke! Wait now let me say it again. What a joke!
Just a few days ago the CBC, and the Telegram ran stories about our award winning journalists. Topping that is Tom Marshall expressing delight that Kathy Dunderdale picked the winning horse in the Federal election - almost at a level of mind-reading genius. (more on that in next post)
With all the talent and genius in this province at the media and political level - perhaps one or all of them could show real interest in the real issues and trouble brewing around us.
Dunderdale is celebrating the potential loan guarantee for a Lower Churchill development that will be the worst resource deal in our history - should it proceed and the media is back slapping each other for the weather turmoil that unfortunately wrecked some communities and lives.
Meanwhile Hydro-Quebec carries on the plunder and the "in your face" disregard for our boundaries or our rivers. The Quebec owned utility has just published it's sustainability report for 2010 - and it demonstrates for all those willing to open their eyes - unplug their partisan ears - and open their PC mouths - that our province is being treated like dirt. We are ignored, ridiculed, and politically abused.
Please go the the following link (HERE) and notice the maps (page 2-3) before you in this 2010 report. Please note the boundaries on this official government document and please note the Romaine River which Quebec is now developing for its own use and profit.
Now try to sit there as a Newfoundlander and Labradorian or an aboriginal person and not ask yourself - are we fools? Where are the so-called award winning journalists and where are the fighting Newfoundland and Labrador politicians?
The media in our province is reporting - not investigating and they are through their own fault or that of assignment editors refusing to cover the absolute destruction of our province and its resources. The Dunderdale government says we must export power so the debate (if any) is whether or not to pump it out through Quebec or Nova Scotia. The debate should have always been about whether to export or not - and then go into the other areas of discussion.
So we are avoiding Quebec - so Kathy says and the media dutifully report - and if it costs us our future - so be it. We will win - Quebec will lose - we are advised. Not only is that not true - it gets worse when you see what Dunderdale and Cabinet are not taking on. We will lose our Labrador borders to Quebec - unless we fight to protect them. We have already conceded the Romaine River, on our way to conceding Old Harry, and the Romaine Caribou Herd. What's next? Oh our children will certainly find out as they realize that yet again inept politicians and either directed or disinterested (journalists) reporters have sold us up and down the river.
By the way where are the intellectual voices of our university professors or historians? Shame on us all!
I thought we understood "squatters rights".
And for those politicians, media, and lazy arses that continue to say - it does not matter - WE know the difference. This sustainability report IS an official government document and is viewed worldwide. It is viewed by large industrial companies and investors. Further it's a little late for the Romaine River right?
Just a few days ago the CBC, and the Telegram ran stories about our award winning journalists. Topping that is Tom Marshall expressing delight that Kathy Dunderdale picked the winning horse in the Federal election - almost at a level of mind-reading genius. (more on that in next post)
With all the talent and genius in this province at the media and political level - perhaps one or all of them could show real interest in the real issues and trouble brewing around us.
Dunderdale is celebrating the potential loan guarantee for a Lower Churchill development that will be the worst resource deal in our history - should it proceed and the media is back slapping each other for the weather turmoil that unfortunately wrecked some communities and lives.
Meanwhile Hydro-Quebec carries on the plunder and the "in your face" disregard for our boundaries or our rivers. The Quebec owned utility has just published it's sustainability report for 2010 - and it demonstrates for all those willing to open their eyes - unplug their partisan ears - and open their PC mouths - that our province is being treated like dirt. We are ignored, ridiculed, and politically abused.
Please go the the following link (HERE) and notice the maps (page 2-3) before you in this 2010 report. Please note the boundaries on this official government document and please note the Romaine River which Quebec is now developing for its own use and profit.
Now try to sit there as a Newfoundlander and Labradorian or an aboriginal person and not ask yourself - are we fools? Where are the so-called award winning journalists and where are the fighting Newfoundland and Labrador politicians?
The media in our province is reporting - not investigating and they are through their own fault or that of assignment editors refusing to cover the absolute destruction of our province and its resources. The Dunderdale government says we must export power so the debate (if any) is whether or not to pump it out through Quebec or Nova Scotia. The debate should have always been about whether to export or not - and then go into the other areas of discussion.
So we are avoiding Quebec - so Kathy says and the media dutifully report - and if it costs us our future - so be it. We will win - Quebec will lose - we are advised. Not only is that not true - it gets worse when you see what Dunderdale and Cabinet are not taking on. We will lose our Labrador borders to Quebec - unless we fight to protect them. We have already conceded the Romaine River, on our way to conceding Old Harry, and the Romaine Caribou Herd. What's next? Oh our children will certainly find out as they realize that yet again inept politicians and either directed or disinterested (journalists) reporters have sold us up and down the river.
By the way where are the intellectual voices of our university professors or historians? Shame on us all!
I thought we understood "squatters rights".
And for those politicians, media, and lazy arses that continue to say - it does not matter - WE know the difference. This sustainability report IS an official government document and is viewed worldwide. It is viewed by large industrial companies and investors. Further it's a little late for the Romaine River right?
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Emera, Romaine River, Caribou Slaughter - what's up Premier Dunderdale?
Emera deal - you are joking right?
In 2007 Sue's Blog questioned the development of the Romaine River by Hydro Quebec. Below please find original post. Carl Powell and I were hammering this publicly for over a year at the time and wanted answers. The government - essentially ignored our concerns and gave no validity to our statements of concern. We were being alarmists and what would we know anyway.
Well I am now completing a review of the Romaine River project and found a few key documents that might demonstrate what this government likes to keep from us. Further I remind the reader that the caribou slaughter that our government has always dragged it's feet on - in one case with the carcasses were found at the headwaters of the Romaine River also makes one wonder.
Why all the fuss and the controversy? Well if Quebec continues with it's belief that the border of Labrador is not the border we recognize and they have continued on with the Romaine River development despite our potential use of the river - well why not slaughter if you are a Quebec hunter?
Please read the original post from 2007 below and then follow to the end for a couple of attachments dating 08-09 and tell me - what did you know about this?
Original Post 07-20-07
Quebec's continued progress to develop the Romaine River despite its potential affects on future development in Labrador - seems to have escaped our Premier - the Minister of Natural Resources - Kathy Dunderdale - and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs - John Ottenheimer.
The billions of dollars which will be spent by Hydro-Quebec for the Romaine development is a real attack on the border and - no doubt if it remains unchallenged until the installation is finished - will place Newfoundland and Labrador in a very serious position.
Hydro-Quebec has filed the necessary environmental documents with the Government of Canada - and my review of the listed documents - indicates we have not filed an objection. At the very least the environmental process should include Newfoundland and Labrador - and reasonably should receive the approval of our province.
This is a copy of a story written by Jamie Baker in the Telegram September of 2007 and also carried by the Labradorian. This story is important in that it outlines concerns expressed by other respected professionals.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Energy/Politics
'Dead in the water'
Quebec plan will pull rug on Lower Churchill, experts warn
Baker, Jamie
Experts say they are shocked at the complacency of the Williams government in the face of a move by Quebec that could not only compromise the environment in this province, but also has the potential to stagger Lower Churchill development.
As part of Premier Jean Charest's massive energy plan, Quebec is pushing forward with hydroelectric projects in an area known as the five rivers in the Lower North Shore region, just south of Labrador.
Quebec is doing so without any agreements with Newfoundland and Labrador on headwaters and possible flooding of areas directly inside Labrador's boundary.
In fact, The Telegram has learned that no entity within Quebec has filed any kind of environmental assessment application with this province.
Adding further concern is the fact the area of Labrador land in question is the same area Quebec lays claim to on its provincial government maps. Premier Danny Williams, who deflected interview requests, has said in the past the boundary matter is "not an issue" and that he "wouldn't even raise it."
Experts warn that attitude could prove costly on several levels.
"I'm surprised in a sense that our present premier hasn't taken up the ball here - if you allow Hydro-Quebec to go ahead and use our water and have their power development downstream, what are we going to get out of it?" said Eric Jerrett, a retired Bay Roberts engineer who is the former president of the provincial land surveyors and engineering associations, former president of the Canadian Council of Land Surveyors and a member of the Order of Canada.
Jerrett warns that ignoring Quebec's development of hydro projects - which will produce equal or greater power than the Lower Churchill - in that area will likely flow to the same markets this province is eyeing for the power that will eventually be produced by the Lower Churchill.
"They'll take that power, sell it to the United States and our market and transportation corridor will be gone," he said. "They will negate the value of building the Lower Churchill and take away the market - the Lower Churchill would be dead in the water."
The Labrador boundary was determined by the 1927 Judicial Committee of His Majesty's Privy Council, and it was the boundary officially accepted by Canada when the province joined Confederation in 1949.
Despite that legal stranglehold, Jerrett insists the Quebec-Labrador boundary is cause for concern.
He notes it is the only provincial boundary in the country that has not been surveyed, even though a memorandum of understanding was signed to that effect between the surveyor associations in both Quebec and this province in the late 1970s.
"(Quebec) wants to continue the image that they own it, that there's no boundary. Surveying it would lessen that argument," he said. "Even pursuing any agreements with Newfoundland, it would be a tacit admittal that they don't own the area. They are instead asserting the case that they own it."
The headwater and flooding issue was included in the Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada as part of a Cleo Research Associates report, entitled Power Politics and Questions of Political Will: A History of Hydroelectric Development in Labrador's Churchill River Basin, 1949-2002.
The report, completed in March 2003, states that Quebec has been keen on developing the five interprovincial rivers for some time, but that "they are unable to do so without an agreement with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador related to the headwaters and flooding."
The rivers include the St. Paul, St. Augustine, Natashquan, Little Mecatina and the Romaine.
The Romaine project is in the most advanced stages with the Quebec government having announced as recently as June 25 that the project is moving forward. According to the Hydro-Quebec website, the draft design for the 1,500-megawatt project began in 2004 and will finish this fall.
Hydro-Quebec documents suggest plans for the Romaine will have no environmental impact inside Labrador.
If the project is deemed acceptable and feasible, construction could begin as early as next year with generating stations commissioned by 2013-2015.
As for the map issue, then-intergovernmental affairs minister Tom Marshall actually wrote to his counterpart in Quebec last summer to ask it be fixed.
Benoit Pelletier responded with his own letter, stating "Quebec's position regarding these borders is well-known and has not changed in many years. As for our common border in Labrador the Quebec governments of the past and present have never formally endorsed the decision regarding the boundary made by ... the Privy Council in 1927."
The map remains on the Quebec provincial government website.
Retired engineer Tom Kierans, whose Lower Churchill development plan was among the top 10 delivered in response to the province's request for proposals, joined Jerrett in calling for the government to be more wary of development activities by Quebec that could affect this province.
"In the so-called Canadian democracy, Quebec and Ontario are the heart of Canada - what Quebec and Ontario want to have done, gets done," Kierans said. "If they want to endorse Quebec's takeover of those rivers, it will be done.
"They'll find a way to do it."
____________________________________________________________________________________
I have highlighted statements that should raise questions for all of us. Further Sue's Blog has demonstrated that the border has been submitted to the Federal Government for their process of environmental assessment of the proposed Romaine River development - and they have accepted them. What does it take? When will we take action? As for Dunderdale's statements yesterday that the government will not raise or debate the issue - Minister Tom Marshall did just that last year - now square that circle Premier.
Documents from 08-09
Hydro-Québec confirms that Romaine project is situated entirely within territory of Québec Click HERE
Questions on the Environmental Impact Statement for the
La Romaine Hydroelectric Generation Project by Hydro-Québec - Newfoundland Labrador Click HERE
Newfoundland and Labrador do not allow the valuable hydro-electric resources to be developed in secret - with a publicly traded Nova Scotian company. Stop this deal. We need all the information including all negotiations with Quebec - any potential for industrial usage in Labrador, and all documents with Emera and all discussions and documents regarding the Romaine River.
In 2007 Sue's Blog questioned the development of the Romaine River by Hydro Quebec. Below please find original post. Carl Powell and I were hammering this publicly for over a year at the time and wanted answers. The government - essentially ignored our concerns and gave no validity to our statements of concern. We were being alarmists and what would we know anyway.
Well I am now completing a review of the Romaine River project and found a few key documents that might demonstrate what this government likes to keep from us. Further I remind the reader that the caribou slaughter that our government has always dragged it's feet on - in one case with the carcasses were found at the headwaters of the Romaine River also makes one wonder.
Why all the fuss and the controversy? Well if Quebec continues with it's belief that the border of Labrador is not the border we recognize and they have continued on with the Romaine River development despite our potential use of the river - well why not slaughter if you are a Quebec hunter?
Please read the original post from 2007 below and then follow to the end for a couple of attachments dating 08-09 and tell me - what did you know about this?
Original Post 07-20-07
Quebec's continued progress to develop the Romaine River despite its potential affects on future development in Labrador - seems to have escaped our Premier - the Minister of Natural Resources - Kathy Dunderdale - and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs - John Ottenheimer.
The billions of dollars which will be spent by Hydro-Quebec for the Romaine development is a real attack on the border and - no doubt if it remains unchallenged until the installation is finished - will place Newfoundland and Labrador in a very serious position.
Hydro-Quebec has filed the necessary environmental documents with the Government of Canada - and my review of the listed documents - indicates we have not filed an objection. At the very least the environmental process should include Newfoundland and Labrador - and reasonably should receive the approval of our province.
This is a copy of a story written by Jamie Baker in the Telegram September of 2007 and also carried by the Labradorian. This story is important in that it outlines concerns expressed by other respected professionals.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Energy/Politics
'Dead in the water'
Quebec plan will pull rug on Lower Churchill, experts warn
Baker, Jamie
Experts say they are shocked at the complacency of the Williams government in the face of a move by Quebec that could not only compromise the environment in this province, but also has the potential to stagger Lower Churchill development.
As part of Premier Jean Charest's massive energy plan, Quebec is pushing forward with hydroelectric projects in an area known as the five rivers in the Lower North Shore region, just south of Labrador.
Quebec is doing so without any agreements with Newfoundland and Labrador on headwaters and possible flooding of areas directly inside Labrador's boundary.
In fact, The Telegram has learned that no entity within Quebec has filed any kind of environmental assessment application with this province.
Adding further concern is the fact the area of Labrador land in question is the same area Quebec lays claim to on its provincial government maps. Premier Danny Williams, who deflected interview requests, has said in the past the boundary matter is "not an issue" and that he "wouldn't even raise it."
Experts warn that attitude could prove costly on several levels.
"I'm surprised in a sense that our present premier hasn't taken up the ball here - if you allow Hydro-Quebec to go ahead and use our water and have their power development downstream, what are we going to get out of it?" said Eric Jerrett, a retired Bay Roberts engineer who is the former president of the provincial land surveyors and engineering associations, former president of the Canadian Council of Land Surveyors and a member of the Order of Canada.
Jerrett warns that ignoring Quebec's development of hydro projects - which will produce equal or greater power than the Lower Churchill - in that area will likely flow to the same markets this province is eyeing for the power that will eventually be produced by the Lower Churchill.
"They'll take that power, sell it to the United States and our market and transportation corridor will be gone," he said. "They will negate the value of building the Lower Churchill and take away the market - the Lower Churchill would be dead in the water."
The Labrador boundary was determined by the 1927 Judicial Committee of His Majesty's Privy Council, and it was the boundary officially accepted by Canada when the province joined Confederation in 1949.
Despite that legal stranglehold, Jerrett insists the Quebec-Labrador boundary is cause for concern.
He notes it is the only provincial boundary in the country that has not been surveyed, even though a memorandum of understanding was signed to that effect between the surveyor associations in both Quebec and this province in the late 1970s.
"(Quebec) wants to continue the image that they own it, that there's no boundary. Surveying it would lessen that argument," he said. "Even pursuing any agreements with Newfoundland, it would be a tacit admittal that they don't own the area. They are instead asserting the case that they own it."
The headwater and flooding issue was included in the Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada as part of a Cleo Research Associates report, entitled Power Politics and Questions of Political Will: A History of Hydroelectric Development in Labrador's Churchill River Basin, 1949-2002.
The report, completed in March 2003, states that Quebec has been keen on developing the five interprovincial rivers for some time, but that "they are unable to do so without an agreement with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador related to the headwaters and flooding."
The rivers include the St. Paul, St. Augustine, Natashquan, Little Mecatina and the Romaine.
The Romaine project is in the most advanced stages with the Quebec government having announced as recently as June 25 that the project is moving forward. According to the Hydro-Quebec website, the draft design for the 1,500-megawatt project began in 2004 and will finish this fall.
Hydro-Quebec documents suggest plans for the Romaine will have no environmental impact inside Labrador.
If the project is deemed acceptable and feasible, construction could begin as early as next year with generating stations commissioned by 2013-2015.
As for the map issue, then-intergovernmental affairs minister Tom Marshall actually wrote to his counterpart in Quebec last summer to ask it be fixed.
Benoit Pelletier responded with his own letter, stating "Quebec's position regarding these borders is well-known and has not changed in many years. As for our common border in Labrador the Quebec governments of the past and present have never formally endorsed the decision regarding the boundary made by ... the Privy Council in 1927."
The map remains on the Quebec provincial government website.
Retired engineer Tom Kierans, whose Lower Churchill development plan was among the top 10 delivered in response to the province's request for proposals, joined Jerrett in calling for the government to be more wary of development activities by Quebec that could affect this province.
"In the so-called Canadian democracy, Quebec and Ontario are the heart of Canada - what Quebec and Ontario want to have done, gets done," Kierans said. "If they want to endorse Quebec's takeover of those rivers, it will be done.
"They'll find a way to do it."
____________________________________________________________________________________
I have highlighted statements that should raise questions for all of us. Further Sue's Blog has demonstrated that the border has been submitted to the Federal Government for their process of environmental assessment of the proposed Romaine River development - and they have accepted them. What does it take? When will we take action? As for Dunderdale's statements yesterday that the government will not raise or debate the issue - Minister Tom Marshall did just that last year - now square that circle Premier.
Documents from 08-09
Hydro-Québec confirms that Romaine project is situated entirely within territory of Québec Click HERE
Questions on the Environmental Impact Statement for the
La Romaine Hydroelectric Generation Project by Hydro-Québec - Newfoundland Labrador Click HERE
Newfoundland and Labrador do not allow the valuable hydro-electric resources to be developed in secret - with a publicly traded Nova Scotian company. Stop this deal. We need all the information including all negotiations with Quebec - any potential for industrial usage in Labrador, and all documents with Emera and all discussions and documents regarding the Romaine River.
Friday, February 04, 2011
PC MHA'S PLEASE READ - and Steve Kent particularly!
I just received this in my email today. Oh the irony. So Mr. Steve Kent - try to understand the issues before opening your mouth - to guide our population - into your abyss of ignorance.
The following is an excerpt from a Hydro-Quebec Release on February 01-11
Thanks to hydropower, over 98% of the electricity generated by Hydro-Québec is clean, renewable and reliable. Very few countries have the same kind of electricity generation profile. In Western Europe, for instance, close to 50% of electricity is generated using fossil fuels, including coal, and over 25% using nuclear power.
Hydropower also means that Quebeckers pay the lowest electricity rates in North America. For example, the average price billed to residential customers throughout Québec is 6.88¢/kWh (rates in effect April 1, 2010).
Of course, there are other sources of renewable energy. In fact, Hydro-Québec is helping develop a number of emerging renewable energy sources. But they will never replace hydropower, for a variety of reasons related to economics, the climate and the environment.
Here’s why:
Wind is unpredictable and intermittent, so it cannot produce a steady supply of electricity. That’s why wind energy supplements hydropower in Québec, just as it supplements nuclear power and fossil fuels elsewhere in the world.....
• The Romaine complex
The Romaine complex, being built between 2009 and 2020, continues the development of Québec’s hydropower potential. It is a cost-effective contribution to Québec’s long-term energy security.
At current borrowing rates, the cost of the Romaine project, including electricity transmission, is 6.4¢/kWh (in 2015 dollars), before water-power royalties paid to our shareholder, the Québec government. It is worth noting that the cost of borrowing to finance the project is much lower than anticipated when the environmental impact statement on the Romaine complex was filed in January 2008. At 6.4¢/kWh, Hydro-Québec covers all its costs. Any income above 6.4¢/kWh (in 2015 dollars) will thus make a positive contribution to the transfers and dividends paid to the Québec government. It should also be added that the generating stations, which will be commissioned between 2014 and 2020, will run for more than 50 years - more likely 100 years.
Hydropower is our basic energy. It’s the energy of our geography. The sites occupied by Hydro-Québec’s power line rights-of-way and reservoirs are ecosystems, and they are very much alive. Countries that have hydropower potential comparable to ours (such as Norway) continue to favor hydropower development, just as we do. It is a mission that Hydro-Québec is proud of.
Note to story: Next time we will talk about how we gave away the headwaters in Labrador (The Romaine River). Way to go Danny. But bit by bit all the Solid Gold ideas will come out. Who are the shareholders of Emera and what will they gain if this deal goes through? We will lose our future. Stop this Legacy of Shame!
The following is an excerpt from a Hydro-Quebec Release on February 01-11
Thanks to hydropower, over 98% of the electricity generated by Hydro-Québec is clean, renewable and reliable. Very few countries have the same kind of electricity generation profile. In Western Europe, for instance, close to 50% of electricity is generated using fossil fuels, including coal, and over 25% using nuclear power.
Hydropower also means that Quebeckers pay the lowest electricity rates in North America. For example, the average price billed to residential customers throughout Québec is 6.88¢/kWh (rates in effect April 1, 2010).
Of course, there are other sources of renewable energy. In fact, Hydro-Québec is helping develop a number of emerging renewable energy sources. But they will never replace hydropower, for a variety of reasons related to economics, the climate and the environment.
Here’s why:
Wind is unpredictable and intermittent, so it cannot produce a steady supply of electricity. That’s why wind energy supplements hydropower in Québec, just as it supplements nuclear power and fossil fuels elsewhere in the world.....
• The Romaine complex
The Romaine complex, being built between 2009 and 2020, continues the development of Québec’s hydropower potential. It is a cost-effective contribution to Québec’s long-term energy security.
At current borrowing rates, the cost of the Romaine project, including electricity transmission, is 6.4¢/kWh (in 2015 dollars), before water-power royalties paid to our shareholder, the Québec government. It is worth noting that the cost of borrowing to finance the project is much lower than anticipated when the environmental impact statement on the Romaine complex was filed in January 2008. At 6.4¢/kWh, Hydro-Québec covers all its costs. Any income above 6.4¢/kWh (in 2015 dollars) will thus make a positive contribution to the transfers and dividends paid to the Québec government. It should also be added that the generating stations, which will be commissioned between 2014 and 2020, will run for more than 50 years - more likely 100 years.
Hydropower is our basic energy. It’s the energy of our geography. The sites occupied by Hydro-Québec’s power line rights-of-way and reservoirs are ecosystems, and they are very much alive. Countries that have hydropower potential comparable to ours (such as Norway) continue to favor hydropower development, just as we do. It is a mission that Hydro-Québec is proud of.
Note to story: Next time we will talk about how we gave away the headwaters in Labrador (The Romaine River). Way to go Danny. But bit by bit all the Solid Gold ideas will come out. Who are the shareholders of Emera and what will they gain if this deal goes through? We will lose our future. Stop this Legacy of Shame!
Friday, August 03, 2007
How can we protect the Arctic when we can't protect borders between provinces?
So the Russians have staked claim to territory in the Arctic - that is more territory - Canadian Territory.
They have planted an underwater flag and claim that because of continental shelf circumstances - they should have control and economic ownership of some areas which are Canadian.
Peter MacKay has responded - and Canada's government wants all Canadians to know they we will defend our borders.
Okay Canadians wake up. This man is unable to control the borders between provinces let alone with other countries.
Sue's Blog has informed all MPS's - the Privy Council - and the PMO that Quebec is distributing fraudulent maps. They are also submitting these same maps to the Government of Canada for hydro-electric projects under environmental review.
Not one MP in this country has the guts to speak up against this challenge to Newfoundland and Labrador's borders - while the majority of them would be steaming hot if Newfoundland and Labrador began to encroach on Quebec turf or if Manitoba started to move its boundaries into Alberta.
The difference is clear - and the main reason why this federation will not work. We have 7 federal seats. It is so important to the Conservative - Liberal - and NDP parties to make gains in Quebec - they will not deal with this significant issue. Where are all the think-tanks and national papers now? Where are the Globe and Mail and the Post - where are the Frazier Institute and/or the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives?
Look at this example of an NDP MP speaking out on the Russian Flag Planting issue in the Globe and Mail yesterday:
NDP MP Dennis Bevington (Western Arctic) criticized the Harper government on the issue Thursday, saying the Russian mission "demonstrates a troubling reality for Northern communities and all Canadians concerning Arctic sovereignty."
Where is Rex Murphy? Where is Jeffrey Simpson?
We are going to defend the Arctic? I don't think so!
See the latest Map violation CLICK HERE
When you get to the page hit Power Generation "under study". Tell me what you see.
They have planted an underwater flag and claim that because of continental shelf circumstances - they should have control and economic ownership of some areas which are Canadian.
Peter MacKay has responded - and Canada's government wants all Canadians to know they we will defend our borders.
Okay Canadians wake up. This man is unable to control the borders between provinces let alone with other countries.
Sue's Blog has informed all MPS's - the Privy Council - and the PMO that Quebec is distributing fraudulent maps. They are also submitting these same maps to the Government of Canada for hydro-electric projects under environmental review.
Not one MP in this country has the guts to speak up against this challenge to Newfoundland and Labrador's borders - while the majority of them would be steaming hot if Newfoundland and Labrador began to encroach on Quebec turf or if Manitoba started to move its boundaries into Alberta.
The difference is clear - and the main reason why this federation will not work. We have 7 federal seats. It is so important to the Conservative - Liberal - and NDP parties to make gains in Quebec - they will not deal with this significant issue. Where are all the think-tanks and national papers now? Where are the Globe and Mail and the Post - where are the Frazier Institute and/or the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives?
Look at this example of an NDP MP speaking out on the Russian Flag Planting issue in the Globe and Mail yesterday:
NDP MP Dennis Bevington (Western Arctic) criticized the Harper government on the issue Thursday, saying the Russian mission "demonstrates a troubling reality for Northern communities and all Canadians concerning Arctic sovereignty."
"It shows just how far behind Harper and the Conservatives are when it comes to asserting our legitimate claim to Arctic sovereignty," Mr. Bevington said in a release. "This clearly demonstrates what the issues are and the actions that we should be taking."
Where is Rex Murphy? Where is Jeffrey Simpson?
We are going to defend the Arctic? I don't think so!
See the latest Map violation CLICK HERE
When you get to the page hit Power Generation "under study". Tell me what you see.
Friday, July 20, 2007
There is a real attack on our Border!
Quebec's continued progress to develop the Romaine River despite its potential affects on future development in Labrador - seems to have escaped our Premier - the Minister of Natural Resources - Kathy Dunderdale - and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs - John Ottenheimer.
The billions of dollars which will be spent by Hydro-Quebec for the Romaine development is a real attack on the border and - no doubt if it remains unchallenged until the installation is finished - will place Newfoundland and Labrador in a very serious position.
Hydro-Quebec has filed the necessary environmental documents with the Government of Canada - and my review of the listed documents - indicates we have not filed an objection. At the very least the environmental process should include Newfoundland and Labrador - and reasonably should receive the approval of our province.
This is a copy of a story written by Jamie Baker in the Telegram September of 2007 and also carried by the Labradorian. This story is important in that it outlines concerns expressed by other respected professionals.
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Energy/Politics
'Dead in the water'
Quebec plan will pull rug on Lower Churchill, experts warn
Baker, Jamie
Experts say they are shocked at the complacency of the Williams government in the face of a move by Quebec that could not only compromise the environment in this province, but also has the potential to stagger Lower Churchill development.
As part of Premier Jean Charest's massive energy plan, Quebec is pushing forward with hydroelectric projects in an area known as the five rivers in the Lower North Shore region, just south of Labrador.
Quebec is doing so without any agreements with Newfoundland and Labrador on headwaters and possible flooding of areas directly inside Labrador's boundary.
In fact, The Telegram has learned that no entity within Quebec has filed any kind of environmental assessment application with this province.
Adding further concern is the fact the area of Labrador land in question is the same area Quebec lays claim to on its provincial government maps. Premier Danny Williams, who deflected interview requests, has said in the past the boundary matter is "not an issue" and that he "wouldn't even raise it."
Experts warn that attitude could prove costly on several levels.
"I'm surprised in a sense that our present premier hasn't taken up the ball here - if you allow Hydro-Quebec to go ahead and use our water and have their power development downstream, what are we going to get out of it?" said Eric Jerrett, a retired Bay Roberts engineer who is the former president of the provincial land surveyors and engineering associations, former president of the Canadian Council of Land Surveyors and a member of the Order of Canada.
Jerrett warns that ignoring Quebec's development of hydro projects - which will produce equal or greater power than the Lower Churchill - in that area will likely flow to the same markets this province is eyeing for the power that will eventually be produced by the Lower Churchill.
"They'll take that power, sell it to the United States and our market and transportation corridor will be gone," he said. "They will negate the value of building the Lower Churchill and take away the market - the Lower Churchill would be dead in the water."
The Labrador boundary was determined by the 1927 Judicial Committee of His Majesty's Privy Council, and it was the boundary officially accepted by Canada when the province joined Confederation in 1949.
Despite that legal stranglehold, Jerrett insists the Quebec-Labrador boundary is cause for concern.
He notes it is the only provincial boundary in the country that has not been surveyed, even though a memorandum of understanding was signed to that effect between the surveyor associations in both Quebec and this province in the late 1970s.
"(Quebec) wants to continue the image that they own it, that there's no boundary. Surveying it would lessen that argument," he said. "Even pursuing any agreements with Newfoundland, it would be a tacit admittal that they don't own the area. They are instead asserting the case that they own it."
The headwater and flooding issue was included in the Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada as part of a Cleo Research Associates report, entitled Power Politics and Questions of Political Will: A History of Hydroelectric Development in Labrador's Churchill River Basin, 1949-2002.
The report, completed in March 2003, states that Quebec has been keen on developing the five interprovincial rivers for some time, but that "they are unable to do so without an agreement with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador related to the headwaters and flooding."
The rivers include the St. Paul, St. Augustine, Natashquan, Little Mecatina and the Romaine.
The Romaine project is in the most advanced stages with the Quebec government having announced as recently as June 25 that the project is moving forward. According to the Hydro-Quebec website, the draft design for the 1,500-megawatt project began in 2004 and will finish this fall.
Hydro-Quebec documents suggest plans for the Romaine will have no environmental impact inside Labrador.
If the project is deemed acceptable and feasible, construction could begin as early as next year with generating stations commissioned by 2013-2015.
As for the map issue, then-intergovernmental affairs minister Tom Marshall actually wrote to his counterpart in Quebec last summer to ask it be fixed.
Benoit Pelletier responded with his own letter, stating "Quebec's position regarding these borders is well-known and has not changed in many years. As for our common border in Labrador the Quebec governments of the past and present have never formally endorsed the decision regarding the boundary made by ... the Privy Council in 1927."
The map remains on the Quebec provincial government website.
Retired engineer Tom Kierans, whose Lower Churchill development plan was among the top 10 delivered in response to the province's request for proposals, joined Jerrett in calling for the government to be more wary of development activities by Quebec that could affect this province.
"In the so-called Canadian democracy, Quebec and Ontario are the heart of Canada - what Quebec and Ontario want to have done, gets done," Kierans said. "If they want to endorse Quebec's takeover of those rivers, it will be done.
"They'll find a way to do it."
____________________________________________________________________________________
I have highlighted statements that should raise questions for all of us. Further Sue's Blog has demonstrated that the border has been submitted to the Federal Government for their process of environmental assessment of the proposed Romaine River development - and they have accepted them. What does it take? When will we take action? As for Dunderdale's statements yesterday that the government will not raise or debate the issue - Minister Tom Marshall did just that last year - now square that circle Premier.
The billions of dollars which will be spent by Hydro-Quebec for the Romaine development is a real attack on the border and - no doubt if it remains unchallenged until the installation is finished - will place Newfoundland and Labrador in a very serious position.
Hydro-Quebec has filed the necessary environmental documents with the Government of Canada - and my review of the listed documents - indicates we have not filed an objection. At the very least the environmental process should include Newfoundland and Labrador - and reasonably should receive the approval of our province.
This is a copy of a story written by Jamie Baker in the Telegram September of 2007 and also carried by the Labradorian. This story is important in that it outlines concerns expressed by other respected professionals.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Energy/Politics
'Dead in the water'
Quebec plan will pull rug on Lower Churchill, experts warn
Baker, Jamie
Experts say they are shocked at the complacency of the Williams government in the face of a move by Quebec that could not only compromise the environment in this province, but also has the potential to stagger Lower Churchill development.
As part of Premier Jean Charest's massive energy plan, Quebec is pushing forward with hydroelectric projects in an area known as the five rivers in the Lower North Shore region, just south of Labrador.
Quebec is doing so without any agreements with Newfoundland and Labrador on headwaters and possible flooding of areas directly inside Labrador's boundary.
In fact, The Telegram has learned that no entity within Quebec has filed any kind of environmental assessment application with this province.
Adding further concern is the fact the area of Labrador land in question is the same area Quebec lays claim to on its provincial government maps. Premier Danny Williams, who deflected interview requests, has said in the past the boundary matter is "not an issue" and that he "wouldn't even raise it."
Experts warn that attitude could prove costly on several levels.
"I'm surprised in a sense that our present premier hasn't taken up the ball here - if you allow Hydro-Quebec to go ahead and use our water and have their power development downstream, what are we going to get out of it?" said Eric Jerrett, a retired Bay Roberts engineer who is the former president of the provincial land surveyors and engineering associations, former president of the Canadian Council of Land Surveyors and a member of the Order of Canada.
Jerrett warns that ignoring Quebec's development of hydro projects - which will produce equal or greater power than the Lower Churchill - in that area will likely flow to the same markets this province is eyeing for the power that will eventually be produced by the Lower Churchill.
"They'll take that power, sell it to the United States and our market and transportation corridor will be gone," he said. "They will negate the value of building the Lower Churchill and take away the market - the Lower Churchill would be dead in the water."
The Labrador boundary was determined by the 1927 Judicial Committee of His Majesty's Privy Council, and it was the boundary officially accepted by Canada when the province joined Confederation in 1949.
Despite that legal stranglehold, Jerrett insists the Quebec-Labrador boundary is cause for concern.
He notes it is the only provincial boundary in the country that has not been surveyed, even though a memorandum of understanding was signed to that effect between the surveyor associations in both Quebec and this province in the late 1970s.
"(Quebec) wants to continue the image that they own it, that there's no boundary. Surveying it would lessen that argument," he said. "Even pursuing any agreements with Newfoundland, it would be a tacit admittal that they don't own the area. They are instead asserting the case that they own it."
The headwater and flooding issue was included in the Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada as part of a Cleo Research Associates report, entitled Power Politics and Questions of Political Will: A History of Hydroelectric Development in Labrador's Churchill River Basin, 1949-2002.
The report, completed in March 2003, states that Quebec has been keen on developing the five interprovincial rivers for some time, but that "they are unable to do so without an agreement with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador related to the headwaters and flooding."
The rivers include the St. Paul, St. Augustine, Natashquan, Little Mecatina and the Romaine.
The Romaine project is in the most advanced stages with the Quebec government having announced as recently as June 25 that the project is moving forward. According to the Hydro-Quebec website, the draft design for the 1,500-megawatt project began in 2004 and will finish this fall.
Hydro-Quebec documents suggest plans for the Romaine will have no environmental impact inside Labrador.
If the project is deemed acceptable and feasible, construction could begin as early as next year with generating stations commissioned by 2013-2015.
As for the map issue, then-intergovernmental affairs minister Tom Marshall actually wrote to his counterpart in Quebec last summer to ask it be fixed.
Benoit Pelletier responded with his own letter, stating "Quebec's position regarding these borders is well-known and has not changed in many years. As for our common border in Labrador the Quebec governments of the past and present have never formally endorsed the decision regarding the boundary made by ... the Privy Council in 1927."
The map remains on the Quebec provincial government website.
Retired engineer Tom Kierans, whose Lower Churchill development plan was among the top 10 delivered in response to the province's request for proposals, joined Jerrett in calling for the government to be more wary of development activities by Quebec that could affect this province.
"In the so-called Canadian democracy, Quebec and Ontario are the heart of Canada - what Quebec and Ontario want to have done, gets done," Kierans said. "If they want to endorse Quebec's takeover of those rivers, it will be done.
"They'll find a way to do it."
____________________________________________________________________________________
I have highlighted statements that should raise questions for all of us. Further Sue's Blog has demonstrated that the border has been submitted to the Federal Government for their process of environmental assessment of the proposed Romaine River development - and they have accepted them. What does it take? When will we take action? As for Dunderdale's statements yesterday that the government will not raise or debate the issue - Minister Tom Marshall did just that last year - now square that circle Premier.
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